Andre

1.) If you are missing just one tooth, an implant can often be used to replace that tooth without harming the adjacent teeth. A bridge requires that the teeth adjacent to the space be prepared for crowns, which can, in some cases, cause more problems with those teeth, such as the need for root canal treatment. the other option is a partial denture, which often requires that hooks or clasps be placed on the adjacent teeth. Many patients find partials unacceptable for function, esthetics, and comfort. An implant is much more stable, esthetic, comfortable, and functional than a partial denture.

2.) When many teeth are missing, implant bridges may be used to replace those teeth instead of a partial. Again, implants are much more stable, esthetic, comfortable, and functional than partial dentures. However, if implant bridges are not an option, implants can be used as an anchor for a partial denture. This allows much better retention and function for a partial.

3.) When all the teeth are missing (either on the upper or the lower), implants can be used to completely replace all the teeth (full mouth reconstruction) or as anchors to hold a full denture. An implant anchored denture offers unique stability, chewing ability, and comfort that a denture alone cannot provide long-term. This is a life-changing experience for folks who have struggled with traditional dentures.

Again, there are many ways that implants can replace teeth in a beautiful and functional manner. People who are interested in replacing missing teeth with implants should definitely give us a call! You’ll be glad you did!

Unfortunately, intrinsic stains, or staining caused by something “inside” the tooth, are very difficult to significantly improve with traditional tooth whitening. Some examples of things that can cause intrinsic staining are too much (or too little) fluoride or tetracycline use during a critical point in the tooth’s development. Extrinsic stain, or stains caused by “outside” agents such as tobacco, coffee, and tea, are better suited for traditional whitening methods. Typically, intrinsic staining can be improved or corrected with bonding or veneers.

There are certain intrinsic stains that can be treated by another type of bleaching. This includes staining from root canal treatment or from a “dead” tooth that needs a root canal (often with a history of trauma to that tooth). This type of stain only occurs on the tooth that either was treated with a root canal or has needed one for some time, and a process called “internal bleaching” can significantly lighten that tooth. As the name implies, this process involves bleaching the tooth from the inside. These teeth usually respond very well to internal bleaching. Of course, it can only be done on a tooth that has had a root canal, and if a tooth has darkened over time because it needs one, then a root canal would have to be performed before the bleaching. The downside to internal bleaching is that sometimes the tooth can be weakened from the process, so your dentist would need to evaluate the case on an individual basis.

As always, each case is unique, so see your dentist to determine if intrinsic or extrinsic stain is the problem and what your options are. Hope this helps!

Thank you!